Bethel’s Kae Kae Mendoza
Bethel High School freshman guard Kae Kae Mendoza is already making a name for herself on the varsity basketball court, but she says what she values most are the memories she is building with her teammates. “I’ve enjoyed making memories with the team as a freshman,” Mendoza said.
Mendoza plays guard for the Lady Wildcats, a spot that demands constant energy and focus. She said the toughest part of the position is the relentless pace. “I play guard. Keeping up my speed and not letting up,” she said. That motor helps define her game, especially when she attacks the basket. “My strength would be driving in the lane, and I am working on my mid-range shots,” she said.
Her growth is fueled by people around her, starting with a teammate she looks up to on and off the floor. Mendoza said her teammate Layla Menhusen inspires her with the way she handles adversity while still lifting up others. “My teammate Layla has inspired me the way she pushes through hard times and is still able to have a smile on her face all while encouraging others,” Mendoza said.
The Bethel locker room is full of personality, and Mendoza is quick to credit teammates for setting the tone. She said Lexi Tucker and Kenna Burhenn both play important roles aside from being great athletes. “Most vocal would have to be Lexi and Kenna constantly keeps the team laughing,” she said.
Away from games and practices, Mendoza’s commitment to improvement continues. She said she does not belong to other school clubs, but she trains with Prince Bridges, who challenges her to elevate her game. “None but I do take lessons/training from Prince Bridges who pushes me and motivates me to get better constantly,” Mendoza said. That work often happens during her free time, which she usually spends either in the gym or with friends. “Going to the gym to practice and hangout with my friends,” she said.
In the classroom, Mendoza’s favorite subject is geography, and she points to Mrs. Nunnley as her favorite teacher. On the court, she said one highlight so far has been the team’s trip to Branson, which gave them a chance to bond away from home. “Our Branson trip,” she said of her favorite moment.
Through it all, basketball has taught Mendoza how to stay steady when the pressure rises. “How to keep my composure under pressure,” she said, a lesson she plans to carry well beyond high school.
